Maloy, Celeste RSS Articles

Maloy Introduces Resolution to Restore Local Voices in Grand Staircase-Escalante Management

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Celeste Maloy (UT-02) today introduced a joint resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to reject the Biden administration's 2025 Resource Management Plan (RMP) for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, returning management of the monument to the 2021 RMP that was developed with the input and support of local communities. The resolution is being led in the Senate by Utah Senator Mike Lee, and is cosponsored by Utah Senator John Curtis in the Senate and Utah Representatives Blake Moore (UT-01), Mike Kennedy (UT-03), and Burgess Owens (UT-04) in the House.

What the Resolution Does

This resolution would reject the Biden administration's 2025 RMP and restore the 2021 plan developed collaboratively with the Trump administration, local governments, and southern Utah communities. The monument's footprint is unchanged. The 2021 plan reinstates multiple-use access to lands the Biden administration had effectively closed through its RMP.

Importantly, none of this land stops being federal land. The entire area would revert to standard Bureau of Land Management (BLM) management, maintaining the full protections that apply to all federal public land while restoring road access and traditional uses like hunting, grazing, and responsible land stewardship.

"The 2025 Biden RMP was written without the people it affects most having any real seat at the table,” said Rep. Maloy. “That's not how land management should work. The 2021 plan was built with local communities, balanced conservation with access, and reflected the realities of life in southern Utah. This resolution uses Congress's constitutional responsibility to check executive overreach and returns management to a plan that actually listens to the people on the ground. And to be clear: this land remains federal land. It remains protected. What changes is that the communities who live here get their voice back."

Background: Grand Staircase-Escalante Resource Management Plans

The 2025 Biden RMP was developed with little to no meaningful input from local leaders, county governments, or the people who live and work in the region. It was opposed by virtually every local elected official in the area.

That stands in sharp contrast to the 2021 RMP, which reflected years of coordination with local stakeholders and was designed to balance conservation with the real-world needs of communities that depend on access to the land. The consequences of ignoring those communities are well-documented. When President Clinton created the monument in 1996 — over the objections of the entire Utah congressional delegation and local leadership — mining operations in the region shut down, economies collapsed, schools closed, and families left.

Background: The Congressional Review Act

The CRA allows Congress to reject a federal agency rule within a 60-legislative-session-day window after the rule is formally reported to Congress. It requires only a simple majority in both chambers, bypassing the 60-vote threshold required to break a Senate filibuster. The CRA gives Congress the authority to review and reject federal agency rules through a simple majority vote, a tool designed to ensure the legislative branch retains meaningful oversight over executive agency decisions with the force of law.

“We have a 1.9 million acre, sweeping land-use regime finalized in the final days of a failed President, with generational consequences for rural Utah communities,” said Sen. Mike Lee. “Congress does not surrender its oversight responsibility simply because an agency labels something a ‘plan’ rather than a ‘rule.’ The GAO has now confirmed what the law makes clear: this Resource Management Plan is a rule. It carries binding consequences. It shapes what can and cannot occur across millions of acres. Under the Congressional Review Act, Congress has the right to review it.”

Local Support

Garfield County Commissioners Jerry Taylor, Leland Pollock, and David Tebbs wrote in support of the CRA: “Despite extensive written comments, alternative proposals, and supporting data, very little of the County’s input was incorporated into the final plan. The GAO’s determination provides Congress with an appropriate opportunity to review the plan and consider whether it reflects a lawful, coordinated, and balanced approach to land management. Given the lack of meaningful coordination with affected local governments, Garfield County supports congressional oversight and review under the CRA.”

Kane County Commissioners Gwen Brown, Celeste Meyers, and Patty Kubeja joined in supporting the resolution: “The Kane County Commission supports congressional action under the Congressional Review Act to disapprove the BLM Record of Decision and Resource Management Plan for the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The Commission urges Congress to ensure that future land management reflects statutory intent, respects local governments, and preserves reasonable access and multiple-use opportunities.”

Utah Delegation Statements

“Our lands are best managed and most appreciated by those who live closest to them. Unfortunately, the Biden Administration’s overreaching management plan for the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument clearly does not reflect the full spectrum of voices who live and work in the area,” said Senator Curtis. “This resolution will help ensure that future management plans better serve the long-term interests of Utahns, not distant federal agencies.”

“Major land-use decisions impacting millions of acres and generations of Utahns should not bypass congressional oversight. No one manages Utah’s lands better than the people of Utah,” said Representative Moore. “We have shown that we can protect natural treasures while also supporting grazing, recreation, tourism, and responsible energy development. We’ve consistently demonstrated that we deserve a seat at the table, and this decision will help ensure Utah’s lands are not used by administrations to advance political goals that ignore local needs, thereby avoiding Congressional oversight.”

"We must ensure that Utah has a meaningful voice in how land within its borders is managed, allow for responsible mineral development and energy production, strengthen local economies and support domestic resource security,” said Representative Kennedy. “We can protect the landscape while also recognizing the importance of jobs, access, and state input in federal land decisions.”

“For too long, Grand Staircase–Escalante has been used as a political talking point in Washington,” said Representative Owens. “Almost 30 years ago, in Arizona and with his back turned to Utah, President Clinton abused the Antiquities Act that locked up millions of acres of Utah. Then again, thousands of miles away in the in a last-ditch effort to enshrine a failed legacy of an awful president, this overreaching rule was issued in both instances these sweeping decisions framed as "environmental victories” sidelined the voices of southern Utah. The people who live, work, and raise their families near these lands deserve a seat at the table. Our responsibility is not to score political points — it is to improve quality of life, protect rural jobs, and ensure local communities are heard. The GAO has confirmed this action qualifies as a rule, and Congress has a duty to conduct a thorough review with meaningful input from community leaders and stakeholders across southern Utah.”

Maloy Introduces Bill to Fix Scheduling Disparity for Rural EMS Agencies

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Today, Congresswoman Celeste Maloy (UT-02) and Senator John Curtis (UT) introduced the Rural Emergency Response Support Act, legislation that would amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to allow rural emergency medical services employees to work 80 hours over a 14-day period, rather than the current 40-hour, 7-day limit. The legislation is also co-sponsored by Utah Representatives Blake Moore (UT-01), Mike Kennedy (UT-03), and Burgess Owens (UT-04).

Under current federal law, most urban and suburban EMS agencies operate under police or fire departments and already benefit from an 80-hour/14-day scheduling exemption. Rural counties, which typically run independent third-service EMS agencies outside of police or fire departments, are not eligible for the same exemption. The Rural Emergency Response Act would close that gap.

"Rural communities deserve the same quality emergency care as anyone else, and right now federal law is making that harder to deliver," said Congresswoman Maloy. "This is a straightforward fix that gives rural EMS agencies the flexibility they need to keep their doors open around the clock and retain the qualified personnel their communities depend on."

“Outdated federal labor rules are making it harder for rural EMS providers to serve their communities,” said Senator Curtis. “Our commonsense fix gives rural jurisdictions the flexibility they need to staff emergency services effectively, ensuring first responders can deliver lifesaving care without unnecessary federal barriers.”

The legislation was introduced at the request of Sheriff Nathan Curtis and EMS Director Mike Willits of Sevier County, Utah, who identified the scheduling disparity as a barrier to maintaining 24/7 coverage in their community.

"Rural EMS in Utah and other states will benefit greatly with this bill,” said Sheriff Nathan Curtis of Sevier County. “As a rural, and sometimes frontier Emergency Medical Services provider, we often struggle to hire qualified EMTs and paramedics to fully staff our needs. The Rural Emergency Response Act will give rural EMS agencies a schedule that is flexible and will allow the coverage our citizens deserve and expect."

The bill also has the support of the Utah Department of Public Safety and the Utah Bureau of Emergency Medical Services.

Beau Mason, Commissioner of the Utah Department of Public Safety, added: "This bill addresses a critical disparity in federal labor law that currently hinders the operational efficiency of our rural EMS providers. The Utah EMS Bureau is committed to ensuring that every Utahn, regardless of their ZIP code, has access to high-quality emergency care. This common-sense policy change removes an outdated regulatory barrier and provides our rural heroes with the same workforce standards enjoyed by their urban counterparts.”

Rep. Celeste Maloy Elected Chair of Congressional Western Caucus

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, Representative Celeste Maloy (R, UT-02) was elected by unanimous consent to serve as Chair of the Congressional Western Caucus, the largest caucus in the House.

Rep. Maloy assumes leadership of the Western Caucus following the passing of former Chairman Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), whose tireless advocacy for rural America left an indelible mark on the Caucus and the communities it serves.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to have been elected Chair of the Western Caucus,” said Rep. Maloy. “The trust my colleagues have placed in me, especially as I step into the figuratively and literally large shoes of the late Chairman Doug LaMalfa, is not lost on me. Doug was a relentless champion for rural America, and filling his shoes, along with those of the leaders who came before him, is a tall order but it’s one I am ready to attack with everything I have.”

Under Rep. Maloy's leadership, the Western Caucus will continue its mission to advance policies that strengthen rural economies, protect natural resources, defend property rights, and ensure energy independence. While the Caucus bears the Western name, its reach extends nationwide.

"The Western Caucus name may suggest the West, but our mission is national," Rep. Maloy emphasized. "Rural America and natural resources live in every state, and I will lead this Caucus with urgency, strength, and grit to ensure those communities are heard, defended, and never ignored."

The Congressional Western Caucus represents members from across the country who are committed to fighting for the priorities of rural Americans, including responsible land management, agricultural vitality, infrastructure development, and economic opportunity in communities often overlooked by Washington.

Industry leaders spoke in support of the new leadership.

“CRES congratulates Rep. Maloy as the next chair of the Congressional Western Caucus,” said Heather Reams, President and CEO Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. “Rep. Maloy is a true champion of all-of-the-above energy as well as western and rural American issues. CRES is proud to call her a friend and now Chair of the Western Caucus!”

Melissa Simpson, president of Western Energy Alliance and board member of the Western Caucus Foundation, said, “Rep. Maloy has come into Congress and demonstrated a matchless ability to wade deep into complex issues unique to the West. She became an instant leader on public lands policies related to energy development, land management, and water authority. From her time at USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service where we first met, I’ve been impressed with her passion to serve people working the land to benefit their families and our nation. She goes to work with a smile and grace and with unflinching grit and determination. It’s no wonder she earned the respect of her colleagues, and we’re pleased she’s the new chairwoman of Western Caucus.”

Rep. Maloy's election as Chair positions her to be a powerful voice for rural communities at a critical time when these areas face unique challenges and opportunities in energy development, natural resource management, and economic growth.

BLM Approves Northern Corridor Highway Plan in Southern Utah

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Bureau of Land Management approved the construction of the Northern Corridor, advancing a long-delayed transportation project critical to Washington County’s growing communities.

The project will connect Washington Parkway and Red Hills Parkway, allowing traffic to bypass downtown St. George and improving safety and travel time for residents throughout southern Utah. The decision also expands protected lands, adding thousands of acres of desert tortoise habitat and preserving popular recreation areas.

The Northern Corridor fulfills a requirement established by Congress in 2009, when it created the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and directed the Secretary of the Interior to preserve a northern transportation route across federal land. The approved corridor reflects years of planning and environmental review and was designed to address traffic congestion while minimizing impacts to public lands and wildlife habitat.

“I’ve worked on this issue for over a decade—first as a deputy county attorney in Washington County, then as a congressional staffer, and finally as a member of Congress,” said Congresswoman Celeste Maloy (R, UT-02). “This decision is the result of decades of work, research, collaboration, and dedication on the part of a long list of elected officials in Washington County. After years of study and careful planning, a solution is now in place. The Northern Corridor balances conservation with the transportation needs of a fast-growing region. I’m grateful to local officials, the BLM, and the Trump administration for working together to move this project forward.”

Congressman Bruce Westerman (R, AR-04), chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources, said, “The Northern Corridor is a long-overdue and vital infrastructure project for the residents of St. George and this announcement from the Bureau of Land Management is a major win for Utahns. I’d like to applaud Representative Maloy for her steadfast leadership on this issue, including hosting the Committee for a field hearing in her district last Congress to bring attention to this problem.”

Approval of the right-of-way restores the original transportation plan contemplated by Congress and provides long-term certainty for local communities, public land managers, and conservation partners as the region continues to grow.

State and local leaders praised the decision as a long-awaited step forward.

“The Northern Corridor will improve local traffic, while providing significant protections for the Mojave Desert Tortoise and safeguard popular recreation areas from potential development on nearby lands,” said Redge Johnson, director of the Public Lands Policy Coordinating Office. “This decision marks a breakthrough for a planning process that has held the county’s needs hostage for far too long.”

Washington County Commissioner Adam Snow stated, “Washington County is so pleased with the Trump Administration and its work that led to the federal decision announced today. This plan is the only feasible way to balance conservation and provide for our county’s transportation and recreation needs.”

“We have worked with our partners across many agencies — at the county, state and federal levels — for many years and to see the Northern Corridor right-of-way restored is great news,” said St. George Mayor Jimmie Hughes. “Let’s be clear: This is a win-win. Not only do we preserve Zone 6, which includes Moe’s Valley, and protect an exponentially larger amount of open space, which includes the desert tortoise, but we also secure the vital transportation corridor mandated by Congress that will benefit our residents for years to come.”

Rep. Maloy Co-Sponsors the Pharmacists Fight Back Acts

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Celeste Maloy (R, UT-02) last week joined as a co-sponsor of two bipartisan bills aimed at reforming the practices of pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, within Medicare, Medicaid, and federal health programs. The legislation includes the Pharmacists Fight Back in Medicare and Medicaid Act and the Pharmacists Fight Back in Federal Health Benefit Plans Act.

The legislation is focused on increasing transparency, ensuring fair pharmacy reimbursement, and lowering costs for patients enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, and the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program. The bills standardize minimum pharmacy reimbursement rates, require full pass-through of manufacturer rebates to patients and plan sponsors, ban PBM steering toward PBM-owned pharmacies, eliminate spread pricing and clawbacks, and impose new transparency and certification requirements. Enforcement provisions include civil and criminal penalties for violations within federal health programs.

“PBMs play a powerful role in our healthcare system, but that power must come with accountability,” said Congresswoman Maloy. “These bipartisan bills promote transparency, fair dealing, and patient-focused care while helping ensure Utah pharmacies can continue serving the communities that rely on them. I am grateful to Representatives Auchincloss (D, MA-04), Harshbarger (R, TN-01), and Comer (R, KY-01) for introducing legislation that tackles predatory behavior that often victimizes the most vulnerable.”

For Utah, where many rural and independent pharmacies serve as the most accessible point of care, these reforms aim to stabilize local pharmacies and protect patient access to medications and pharmacist services.

State leaders and pharmacy advocates welcomed the legislation.

“Community pharmacy is collapsing, and patients are paying the price,” said Scott Robinson, an owner and operator of eight independent pharmacies with over 25 years of experience. “Pharmacy deserts are spreading across America while PBMs and corporate shareholders grow richer by siphoning money out of patient care. This system is unsustainable, unjust, and dangerous to public health. The Pharmacist Fight Back Bill and related reforms are not optional—they are necessary to stop the bleeding and restore fairness, transparency, and access to care. Every day Congress delays, more pharmacies close and more communities lose access to lifesaving medications and trusted healthcare professionals. Action is needed now—before irreversible damage is done to America’s healthcare system.”

Utah State Senator Evan Vickers, a pharmacist and leader in PBM reform, said, “I sincerely appreciate Congresswoman Maloy tackling this very difficult healthcare issue. These pieces of legislation are designed to cut patient costs, increase access to patients’ choice of pharmacy, and help local independent and chain pharmacies receive the reimbursement for their pharmacy services that will allow them to be profitable. Many small independent pharmacies have had to close their doors. These pieces of legislation will help reverse that trend.”

The Utah Pharmacy Association issued the following statement: "The Utah Pharmacy Association supports the Pharmacists Fight Back Acts currently before Congress and urges swift action to advance these critical reforms. Community and independent pharmacies across Utah are facing mounting financial pressure due to unfair and opaque pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) practices, including below-cost reimbursement, retroactive fees, and patient steering. These practices threaten patient access to medications and essential pharmacy services, particularly in rural and underserved communities. The Pharmacists Fight Back Acts would bring much-needed transparency and accountability to the prescription drug marketplace while ensuring pharmacies are fairly reimbursed for the care they provide. Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare providers, and these reforms will help preserve patient choice, protect local pharmacies, and strengthen the healthcare system for Utah families."

The bills apply exclusively to federal health programs and do not affect private commercial insurance plans.

Recommitting to Freedom and Responsibility as We Approach America 250

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

The thirty-seven-year-old corset maker was no stranger to tyranny. He had seen the brutality of a savage English criminal code that would hang a ten-year-old boy for stealing a pen knife or killing a rabbit.

Thomas Paine arrived in Philadelphia at the very time people living in the thirteen colonies, separated by a thousand miles of geography, starkly different religious views, dissimilar economic interests, and speaking different languages, were wondering if attempting to separate from the most powerful empire on earth was the right thing to do.

What was it that convinced enough ordinary men and women that a monarchy was a poor form of government and the foolishness of a small island, an ocean away, ruling a continent?

The firebrand corset maker dipped his quill in ink, and on January 10^th, 1776, published "Common Sense." 500,000 copies were printed in the first year—one for every five Americans.

He was a magician with words.

“The Time has found us!….We have it in our power to begin the world again!” Not since the time of Noah, he suggested, has there been such a possibility.

"Common Sense" was the spark. The conflagration came 176 days later when the world first heard words historian Samuel Eliot Morison described as “more explosive than the atom.”

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal…”

And soon the lyrics of the satirical song written by Benjamin Franklin were heard in the streets: "We have an old mother that peevish has grown. She treats us like children that scarce walk alone. She forgets we’ve grown up and have sense of our own."

The breaking point did not come spontaneously. It was not born in a single summer. It had percolated in the minds of The Founding Fathers for years as they assiduously studied the writings of Sir William Blackwell, John Locke—both advocates for natural rights, religious freedom, and the consent of the governed— and Montesquieu, the French philosopher whose ideas of constitutionalism and the separation of powers shaped their thinking.

The phrase, “taxation without representation is tyranny,” coined by the American writer James Otis, rang in their ears, and served as a warning about what happens when citizens stop paying attention.

That long view helped them understand their own moment. They saw themselves as part of a much older human struggle to balance power and freedom. The conviction that citizens have a duty and a right to resist tyranny was not new. It came from years of reading, thinking, and wrestling with the past. They understood self-government because they had practiced governing their local affairs for 150 years before King George dissolved the legislature of Massachusetts.

No, the Founders were not born knowing how to build a republic. It came to them as they read widely, argued respectfully, as they considered how to craft a constitution that would “begin the world again.”

They were not alone. In taverns and churches, over split rail fences, and stone walls, many of their fellow countrymen discussed and debated these very same ideas. Farmers read histories by candlelight. Colonial newspapers printed "Cato’s Letters"—his ardent defense of liberty, his conclusion that power corrupts and must be kept in check by an informed citizenry. They formed Committees of Correspondence. In frontier settlements, and coastal towns, in hamlets and townships people considered civic learning as a serious obligation years before Concord, where, in April of 1775, “…the embattled farmers stood, and fired the shot heard round the world.”

The question for us as we approach America 250, is simple: are we taking our responsibilities as seriously as those scattered subjects of a king who fought to call themselves Americans? This is our challenge. We know a republic cannot rely on the wisdom of past generations. It is required of each generation to understand why their rights matter and how easily they can be surrendered when civic engagement falters.

Consider Ronald Reagan’s oft-quoted reminder, "Freedom is never more than one generation from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in our blood stream." The Founders assumed future generations would be as committed to individual freedoms, limited government, and the struggle to oppose tyranny as were they.

Today that assumption is under strain. We skim. We scroll. We consume information that flatters our biases instead of sharpening our judgment. We let algorithms tell us what to think instead of demanding better.

As we look toward the 250^th anniversary of our founding we should rekindle the intellectual fire of those who made this country possible. The Founders did not design a nation that could run on autopilot. They expected us to take the controls, think for ourselves, and to shoulder the work of keeping our republic strong. It is time for us to rise to that expectation.

Originally published in the Deseret News

Rep. Maloy Introduces the Geothermal Tax Parity Act of 2025

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Today, Representative Celeste Maloy (R-UT) introduced the bipartisan Geothermal Tax Parity Act of 2025, which extends long standing oil and gas tax provisions to geothermal projects to promote one of America’s cheapest and most reliable energy sources. The bill supports a rapidly growing American energy industry delivering reliable, around the clock power. The legislation is cosponsored by Representatives John Garamendi (D-CA), Blake Moore (R-UT), Steven Horsford (D-NV), and Russ Fulcher (R-ID).

“Geothermal energy is a reliable resource with enormous potential, especially in the West,” said Rep. Celeste Maloy. “Utah is already proving what next generation geothermal can deliver. This bill removes outdated barriers in the tax code so private investment can keep pace with innovation, strengthen our energy security, and create high quality jobs in rural communities.”

The Geothermal Tax Parity Act would allow geothermal projects to qualify for the same passive loss treatment long available to oil and gas investments, enabling investors to deduct project losses against other income. The bill would also extend existing tax treatment for geological and geophysical exploration costs to geothermal development, reducing upfront risk and encouraging private sector investment.

In Utah, geothermal innovation is already underway. Fervo Energy is constructing the world’s largest next generation geothermal development in Beaver County. The project is expected to begin operations in 2026 and deliver up to 500 megawatts of power by 2028, supporting growing energy demand across the region.

“Geothermal energy is one of the most promising, clean energy resources we have. It provides reliable, round-the-clock power, strengthens our energy security, and creates good-paying jobs,” said Rep. John Garamendi. “The bipartisan Geothermal Tax Parity Act is simple: if oil and gas receive a tax benefit, geothermal should too. By extending long-standing energy tax incentives to geothermal, we can accelerate next-generation clean energy deployment, leverage our existing workforce and engineering expertise, and position the United States as a global leader in geothermal power.”

Industry leaders also voiced support for the legislation.

Fervo said, “We are grateful for Rep. Maloy and Rep. Garamendi’s leadership on the Geothermal Tax Parity Act. The bill will help attract capital to a rapidly growing industry, further positioning enhanced geothermal to meet our nation’s rising electricity demand with clean, baseload power.”

“Quaise Energy strongly endorses the Geothermal Tax Parity Act. This legislation will help unlock America's vast geothermal potential at exactly the moment we need it most,” said Carlos Araque, CEO and President of Quaise Energy. “By creating the right investment climate for next-generation geothermal technologies, Representatives Maloy and Garamendi are positioning the United States to command technological leadership in accessing an energy resource that dwarfs all other sources combined, strengthening our national security and economic competitiveness.”

Zanskar stated, “Rep. Maloy’s Geothermal Tax Parity Act will provide an essential market-based tailwind to help ignite an American geothermal boom. By modernizing the tax code to reflect the geothermal's unique value and potential, this bill levels the playing field for investors—attracting private capital and helping secure a future of clean, reliable and American baseload power.”

Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions added, "CRES applauds the introduction of the Geothermal Tax Parity Act, which will accelerate the deployment of geothermal energy. Geothermal energy is an important, home-grown part of the nation's energy mix. By accelerating investments into this industry, America's energy system can become cleaner, more reliable and more affordable."

The Geothermal Tax Parity Act is supported by a broad coalition including Geothermal Rising, Fervo Energy, U.S. Oil and Gas Association, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions, the Bipartisan Policy Center, Greenfire Energy, Quaise Energy, and Eavor.

Maloy, Lummis Introduce CLEAR Act to Protect Local and State Law Enforcement Authority

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Earlier this week, Congresswoman Celeste Maloy (R-UT), alongside Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), introduced the Community Law Enforcement Authority Restoration Act of 2025, known as the CLEAR Act, to block a Biden-era U.S. Forest Service rule that expands federal involvement in enforcing state and local laws.

The Forest Service rule, Law Enforcement; Criminal Prohibitions, was finalized in the final weeks of the Biden Administration and would allow federal land management agencies to administer and enforce certain criminal laws. The CLEAR Act prevents the Forest Service from administering, implementing, or enforcing the rule.

“In Utah, local law enforcement knows their communities best,” said Congresswoman Maloy. “Our sheriffs are accountable to the people they serve. The CLEAR Act keeps law enforcement authority where it belongs and prevents unnecessary federal overreach into Utah’s rural counties.”

Utah is home to vast areas of federally managed land, making clear lines of law enforcement authority critical for public safety and effective governance. Local sheriffs have long worked cooperatively with federal agencies, but the rule raised concerns about jurisdictional confusion and authority being expanded through administrative action rather than by Congress.

“This effort, implemented by the U.S. Forest Service, has been a long-standing issue of contention,” said Tracy Glover, Sheriff of Kane County Utah. “While we seek strong working relationships with federal agencies, we cannot, and will not, abdicate our authority and jurisdiction to the detriment of the people we serve and the Office of Sheriff.”

The bill is supported by the Western States Sheriffs’ Association, which represents more than 1,200 sheriffs across the West and has opposed the rule since it was first proposed.

Maloy and Auchincloss Introduce Deepfake Liability Act

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

On Monday, Representatives Celeste Maloy (R-UT) and Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) introduced the Deepfake Liability Act, aimed at addressing the rapid rise of nonconsensual deepfake pornography and the online tools that enable it. Women and teenage girls are the overwhelming targets of these abuses, which now make up the vast majority of deepfake content online.

“Abusive deepfakes and cyberstalking are harming people across the country, and victims deserve real help. Our bill creates a straightforward duty of care and a reliable process to remove harmful content when victims ask for help,” said Congresswoman Celeste Maloy. “Companies that take this seriously will keep their protections under the law. Those that do nothing will be held accountable.”

The bill amends Section 230 by conditioning a platform’s liability protections on meeting a clear duty of care. Platforms would be required to take basic steps to prevent cyberstalking and abusive deepfakes, respond to reports from victims, investigate credible complaints, and remove harmful content that violates individuals’ privacy. The legislation also clarifies that AI-generated content does not qualify for Section 230 immunity.

“AI shouldn’t have special privileges & immunities that journalists don’t get,” said Congressman Jake Auchincloss. “Using bots or deepfakes to violate or stalk another person is reprehensible, and it needs to be a CEO-level problem for the trillion-dollar social media corporations that platform it. Congress needs to get ahead of this growing problem, instead of being left in the dust like we were with social media.”

The Deepfake Liability Act incorporates the notice and removal framework from the Take It Down Act. It outlines requirements for reporting processes, investigation procedures, timely removal of unlawful material, and data logging to ensure victims can access information needed for legal action.

“The time is now to reform Section 230. For too long, online platforms have been shielded from liability for online abuse that we know silences victims and ruins lives. Nearly every industry owes basic duties to prevent foreseeable harm; with this bill, so will the tech industry. This bill imposes a well-defined duty of care on online platforms to prevent, investigate, and remove cyberstalking, nonconsensual intimate images, and digital forgeries,” said Danielle Keats Citron, Vice President of the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative. “The bill also corrects an overbroad judicial interpretation of Section 230 that lets platforms solicit or encourage online activity without accountability. With this bill, online intermediaries will be responsible not only for online speech activity they helped create or develop but also for online speech activity that they solicit or encourage. This is the bill that we need to protect civil rights and liberties online.”

Reps. Meng and Maloy Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Access to Donated Menstrual Products

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Last week, Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY) and Celeste Maloy (R-UT) introduced the bipartisan Good Samaritan Menstrual Products Act. This legislation establishes liability protections for individuals, businesses, and organizations that donate menstrual products to nonprofit distribution partners.

The bill, modeled after the successful Good Samaritan Food Donation Act, will seek to incentivize greater charitable giving by ensuring donors can provide hygiene products without fear of legal risk.

“Utahns have a long tradition of stepping up for one another, whether through donations, volunteer work, or direct support in times of need,” said Congresswoman Maloy. “That generosity deserves to be protected. This bill gives donors the clarity and confidence they need to share essential products with nonprofit partners without concern for legal risk, helping them continue strengthening communities across our state, including through donations of hygiene products for women and girls.”

“Today, one in four teenagers and one in three adults report struggling to secure menstrual products,” said Congresswoman Meng. “Every day costs are continuing to rise, and it is more important than ever that we ensure everyone who needs menstrual products can access them. Our Good Samaritan Menstrual Products Act would help address this need by easing restrictions on charitable donations of these products. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle as we fight to end period poverty once and for all.”

States like Utah and New York have taken meaningful steps to expand access to menstrual products, demonstrating that targeted policy changes can reduce barriers and improve quality of life. The Good Samaritan Menstrual Products Act builds on this momentum by creating a clear, nationwide framework that protects donors and empowers nonprofits. By codifying these protections, the bill encourages more consistent and reliable support for people experiencing period poverty.

“Half the population menstruates, and lack of access to period products has real consequences for health, education, and overall well-being,” said Emily Bell McCormick, President of The Policy Project. “We are thrilled to see Representatives Meng and Maloy bringing national attention to this issue. In Utah, where The Policy Project championed legislation requiring period products in every public and charter school, we’ve already seen the positive impact of increased access to these essential items. The Good Samaritan Menstrual Products Act is a critical step toward ensuring that everyone nationwide can access the period products they need to thrive.”

"Days for Girls is excited about the Good Samaritan Menstrual Products Act and fully supports this bipartisan bill. Individuals and organizations will finally be able to make a broader range of donations without fear of frivolous liability. This will allow people in need to select from a greater product mix, choosing what works best for them." Diana T. Nelson, Global Advocacy Director.

You can find the full text of the bill here.

Salt Lake City Town Hall

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Reps. Celeste Maloy and Mike Kennedy are excited to announce a Town Hall meeting in Salt Lake City at the University of Utah on March 20th.

Date
March 20, 2025

Time
6-7 PM
**Doors open at 5:45pm**

Location
Gardner Commons Siciliano Auditorium
200 Central Campus Dr. Salt Lake City, UT 84112

RSVP and get your ticket HERE.

Grantsville Town Hall

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Rep. Maloy is pleased to invite you to a Town Hall in Grantsville on February 20th. She looks forward to discussing the issues that matter most to Utah's Second Congressional District.

Date
February 20, 2025

Time
6-7 PM
**Doors open at 5:45pm**

Location
Grantsville Fire Station
26 N Center St, Grantsville, UT 84029

*RSVP and submit a question HERE.

Bountiful Town Hall

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 23:30:00 GMT

Rep. Celeste Maloy is pleased to announce an upcoming town hall in Bountiful. She looks forward to discussing the issues that matter most to Utah's Second Congressional District.

Date
September 4th, 2024

Time
7:30-9:00pm

Location
Bountiful City Hall
795 S Main St Bountiful, UT 84010

*RSVP and submit a question HERE.*

St. George Town Hall

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 21:00:00 GMT

I’m excited to announce that I’ll be hosting a town hall on August 15 in Washington County! Please join me for a discussion about issues affecting Utah’s Second Congressional District and what I’ve been working on in my first nine months representing you.

Date:
August 15

Time:
5pm-6:30pm

Location:
Dixie Tech
Room A223
610 S. Tech Ridge Dr. St. George, UT 84770

Speaking with you and listening to your priorities is one of my favorite parts about being your representative. I look forward to seeing you!

Tooele Town Hall

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 21:00:00 GMT

I’m excited to announce that I’ll be hosting a town hall on August 14 in Tooele County! Please join me for a discussion about issues affecting Utah’s Second Congressional District and what I’ve been working on in my first nine months representing you.

Date:
August 14

Time:
5pm-6pm

Location:
Tooele High School
Room 101
301 W. Vine Street Tooele, UT 84074

Speaking with you and listening to your priorities is one of my favorite parts about being your representative. I look forward to seeing you!

Passport Fair - How to register

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Need help getting or renewing a passport? Rep. Maloy is pleased to announce, in coordination with the Department of State, a “Passport Fair” at Utah Tech University.

See below for details on how to register:

Wednesday, March 27

1:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Utah Tech University, Gardner Student Center Ballroom

225 South University Avenue, St. George, UT 84770

**All appointments have been filled. If you would like help with passports, please reach out to my District Office at (801) 364-5550.

When attending your appointment, please park in Lot M. Click HERE for a map.

To apply for a passport (or to renew a passport), you must bring to your appointment:

A completed passport application for each applicant
- Forms can be filled out and printed from https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/forms.html

- For Minors Under 16 – Personal appearance of the Minor and Parental Consent required. Please visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/under-16.html

- Minors Aged 16 and 17 must appear in person. Please visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/16-17.html

Evidence of U.S. Citizenship
A recent passport photo – 2” x 2” (NO GLASSES in Passport Photos)
Valid photo identification and a clear, single-sided copy of the front and back of the ID
Payment of passport fees (check or money order)

Primary Application Forms for a U.S. Passport:

Use the State Department’s Form Filler to enter your information online and print off a paper form with a special barcode.

Processing Times:

Routine Service: 6-8 weeks
Expedited Service: 2-3 weeks (additional $60)